Marquise Jackson, 21, denied killing Mo’Nayjah Jackson during his arraignment at Pasadena Superior Court. His bail was set at $1 million.

Mo’Nayjah Jackson was reported not breathing on May 20 at a residence in the 100 block of West Del Mar Boulevard. Attempts to resuscitate the child were unsuccessful.

Pasadena police said Marquise Jackson later confessed to the killing. He was arrested Aug. 25 in Lancaster.

“He (said he) wanted to be alleviated of his responsibilities of being a father,” Lt. Tracey Ibarra said.

Coroner’s spokesman Craig Harvey said Mo’Nayjah Jackson died of asphyxia. He added it’s possible she was held under water. Marquise Jackson remains in custody at the Inmate Reception Center. His next court date is Nov. 8.